Working Through Depression: Ask Noah

Get a handle on your emotional health, and value your career -- is a precious commodity, these days.

NEW YORK ( TheStreet) -- Q: I've had four careers in the last five years. I've been very unsatisfied and wonder if it's less to do with the jobs and more to do with depression. I quickly lose all interest in the jobs as soon as I begin working. I'm presently feeling a familiar anxiety that in the past would have had me running. I feel I need to stick this one out. Do you have any tips for me?

A: Labor is a precious commodity. A considerable amount of our waking hours is spent at work, and this not so subtly shapes the type of person we become.

Why do we need consistency in our careers?

The economic reasons are self evident; work allows us to support ourselves and our families. Beyond the economic benefits, professional stability strengthens self esteem, validates purpose/ego and keeps us feeling in control of our futures.

Job security provides one with the ability to loudly declare status and rank; "I do___ for a living!" Game. Set. Match. Point.

Folks who have issues solving their quest for professional identity frequently feel plagued by a sense of confinement. They often feel that their personal windows of opportunity are being closed.

Your "need to stick this one out," indicates an understanding that your habit of leaving careers is not working. The restlessness (or anxiety) is understandable. It is your history and the familiarity you have with this emotion, makes it attractive to give in to.

What if you strengthened your tolerance level, fighting the desire you feel to run and stayed the course instead?